How can you fight Springtime allergies?

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO (KFVS) - Runny nose, watery eyes, stuffy headache....all symptoms of Springtime allergies. But what can you do to get rid of them? If you're' suffering, you're not alone.

"Absolutely....tremendous increase in the number of people coming in complaining of allergies and sinus problems," said John McMullin, President of John's Pharmacy.

You might know a thing or two about these problems.

"People with runny nose, burning eyes, congestion," said McMullin.

And if you have them, you're not alone.

"This season has been more problematic for patients I think because it's been so windy," said Allergy Specialist Doctor Janna Tuck.

Tuck says although the wind is causing the problems this year, she says it's always something.

"Every season everyone goes oh this is the worst spring ever," said Tuck.

She says the most popular allergens are pollen, dust mites, pet animals, and mold.

"People who say I'm kind of bothered when the seasons change, and they think they're seasonal, but they may not be from pollen allergies, they may be mold allergic.....when they rake leaves, and they do yard work and when they mow, it may not be grass it may be mold," said Tuck.

Tuck says there are a couple things you can do to help allergies:

-keep windows closed both in your home and car

-shower and change clothes after being outdoors

-use saline solution and eye drops to cleanse your nose and eyes

And she says there's always one answer...

"Don't. Go. Out. Side. Well that's not very nice in the nice spring, so limit the amount of time you go outside," said Tuck.

"Well everything is blooming right now, that's why things are so beautiful as we drive around all the flowers and the trees and the shrubs...so this very high season will probably be another couple of weeks," said McMullin.

Tuck says they call allergy suffers part of "the walking wounded." She says it can be difficult since symptoms are bothersome, but not enough to keep you away from work or school. Her advice to all? Have more sympathy for those around you suffering from allergies.